Nepal Authorities Detain Over 100 as Violence Erupts During Pro Monarchy Protest

Nepal- Authorities in Nepal have detained more than 100 people as the government launches an investigation into the deadly violence that erupted during a protest march organized by supporters of former King Gyanendra Shah. The demonstrators were demanding the restoration of the constitutional monarchy in the Himalayan nation.

Tensions flared in parts of Kathmandu on Friday as pro-monarchy protesters clashed with security forces, pelting stones, vandalizing the office of a political party, setting vehicles on fire, and looting shops in the capital. The situation quickly escalated as police moved to disperse the crowd, leading to violent confrontations that left two people dead, including a television cameraman and a protester. At least 112 others were injured in the clashes, according to authorities.

Eyewitnesses reported that protesters attempted to march towards the parliament building, chanting slogans in favor of the monarchy. As the demonstration turned violent, police resorted to using batons and tear gas to stop the advancing crowd. In response, demonstrators retaliated by throwing stones and attacking public and private property. The intensity of the clashes prompted authorities to call in the Nepal Army to control the situation and restore order.

The incident marks one of the most significant outbreaks of violence linked to the pro-monarchy movement in recent years. Supporters of former King Gyanendra Shah have been increasingly vocal about their demand for the reinstatement of the constitutional monarchy, arguing that the current republican system has failed to bring stability and economic progress to the country. The former monarch himself has made several public appearances in recent years, subtly indicating his willingness to return to power if the people desire it.

The Nepalese government has condemned the violence and assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted to identify those responsible for the unrest. Security officials have stated that many of those arrested were directly involved in acts of vandalism and attacks on security personnel. Meanwhile, opposition parties and human rights groups have called for restraint from both sides, urging the government to address the grievances of the protesters through dialogue rather than force.

Kathmandu remained under tight security on Saturday, with additional police and military personnel deployed in key areas to prevent further unrest. The government has also warned against any attempts to incite violence, stating that strict action will be taken against those who disrupt public order.

The clashes have sparked debates over Nepal’s political future, with pro-monarchy voices gaining traction in certain sections of society. Nepal transitioned from a monarchy to a federal democratic republic in 2008 after a decade-long Maoist insurgency and mass protests led to the abolition of the 240-year-old monarchy. However, political instability and economic challenges have fueled dissatisfaction among some citizens, leading to renewed calls for the return of the monarchy.

As authorities continue their investigation, the incident has raised concerns about Nepal’s security situation and the potential for further unrest in the coming days. The government has appealed for calm and urged citizens to express their views peacefully, emphasizing the need for stability and democratic discourse in the country.